Komitor Music
About
I have been a working musician for over 25 years, and have been teaching music in NYC public schools for the past ten years. My teaching philosophy is focused around working incrementally toward mastery. I teach students how to embrace the learning process, and to enjoy the art of practicing. I believe we are all ultimately self taught, and my primary goal is to encourage people to learn how they process learning, and to build from there.
I am equally versed in the learning process from a folk art perspective, and from an academic perspective and draw from those and other disciplines as I feel they will benefit each student.
I am primarily a guitarist and singer, versed in rock music and American traditional music including blues, bluegrass and ragtime, and am jazz educated in arranging, guitar, voice and bass. My experience covers broad swaths of the music universe, from composition and lyric writing to modern production and recording technologies, so whatever your musical interest, I can help guide you.
I help people accomplish their own personal goals, which I believe to be the foundation of confidence and capability in the world.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Before starting, I like to discuss the students musical interests and what belt ought them to the instrument. I then begin with a simple warmup to get familiar with the mechanics of playing. I'll then choose a piece consistent with the student's interests to start to learn. From there I'll introduce some basic theory concepts, and briefly discuss the role of the player of that instrument in a variety of musical settings.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
5 years under the tutelage of Ray Brown, trumpeter and arranger, Cabrillo College, Aptos, California
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My standard rate is $75/hr
How did you get started teaching?
I had some friends who had started a non-profit that was doing educational programs in the NYC school system, so I asked to be involved.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with a broad range of students, from beginners through intermediate, and have even offered insights to some master musicians with whom I work. I have worked with children from three and up, to adults, but most of my Experiece is with high school age people.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Just befor Le the pandemic put a halt on social events with live music, I had the opportunity to play in a DIY group show that featured several bands made up of people in their mid twenties; all of whom I had either taught in high school or mentored. We all had a great time playing to an audience of longtime friends, and had a dance party in the venue afterwards. I felt very proud as a teacher. I had a palpable feeling of having acccomplished something important, and of being a part of a real community, whose values I believe in.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for someone who listens to what your interests are. There is some fundamental knowledge that can be useful, but are thousands of ways to approach learning music.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Why do you make music?